Ruby Mae consoles Dele Alli after England are beaten by Croatia in the World Cup semi-final

Alli is just one of five England players who may be forced to miss the opener, while Hugo Lloris, Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld are also doubts having reached at least the World Cup semi-finals.

Poch still hopes to add some fresh faces to the team but insists he has been impressed by the youngsters who have come in in pre-season.

He said: "With or without injuries that was our target after we finished last season - to add some players with qualities that can help us achieve all that we want."

Pochettino added: "I am so happy with the young ones. Luke Amos has played the most and then Oliver Skipp.

"A lot of the younger ones have the possibility to show their quality. I am so happy with them. I think they are players that still need to grow."